Raimondo Nominates Former National Grid Attorney Olton to Chair Public Utilities Commission

Raimondo Nominates Former National Grid Attorney Olton to Chair Public Utilities Commission

Governor Gina Raimondo has nominated Laura Olton to chair the Rhode Island Public Utilities Commission (PUC).

“Laura has deep experience in the clean energy sectors that are the future in Rhode Island. She is well positioned to lead the PUC as it tackles the important issues of building a clean, affordable, reliable energy future,” said Raimondo.

Olton will replace Margaret (Meg) Curran who was appointed as chairperson in 2013. Curran was former U.S. Attorney for Rhode Island.

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Her name will now be submitted to the Rhode Island Senate for its advice and consent.

About Olton

According to Raimondo's office. Olton has two decades of experience as a leader in energy, utility and regulatory law throughout New England, including Rhode Island. For many years she served as General Counsel to National Grid.

She is currently the Principal of LSO Energy Advisors where she counsels a variety of energy customers and nonprofits. She also chairs the Town of Wellesley Sustainable Energy Committee, leading numerous greenhouse gas reduction initiatives.

From 2008 through 2011 she served as General Counsel of the Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities where she focused on clean energy policy, including net metering, long-term renewable contracts, energy efficiency, and electric grid modernization.

She holds a law degree from Boston University School of Law and a bachelor’s degree from Tufts University.